Making the most of rains in UAE

The rain across the UAE is welcome and timely, as it comes just ahead of the holiday season, when people will be able to make the most of the cooler, wetter weather.

While the unexpected conditions, and huge puddles on the roads, may put a slight dampener on some holiday plans, the excitement and relief that comes with the unusual weather is worth it. The spectacular lightening storms have shown that nature can also put on some best fireworks displays.

However, as much as we would like people to make the most of the rain, we urge the public to be cautious and the authorities to be alert during the wet conditions. At a time when many families will be on the road, drivers must be careful as not many will be used to the slippery roads and poor visibility, greatly increasing the risk of accidents. There have also been warnings of flash floods in the desert and storms at sea, both popular places among holiday makers.

The authorities must monitor the situation carefully and be ready to step in to stop people placing their lives in jeopardy and rescue those who find themselves at risk.

It is also perhaps time to start looking at improving the storm water drainage systems in the cities and towns of the UAE. With global warming changing the world's climate, the unusual storms might become a much more regular occurrence.